Mediamedic

OlympiA Trial 10-Year Update: Major Findings from SABCS 2024 At SABCS 2024, Dr. Judy Garber presented the latest 10-year follow-up results from the OlympiA trial, which continue to reinforce the role of adjuvant olaparib in patients with germline BRCA1/2 mutation-associated, high-risk HER2-negative breast cancer. With a median follow-up of 6.1 years (maximum 9.6 years), the trial confirms the long-term benefits of olaparib in reducing recurrence and improving survival outcomes. The data show significant improvements across key endpoints. The 6-year invasive disease-free survival (IDFS) rate was 9.4% higher in the olaparib group compared to placebo, while the 6-year distant disease-free survival (DDFS) rate improved by 7.8%. Overall survival (OS) also showed a 4.4% increase in the olaparib arm, reaffirming its impact in preventing disease progression and mortality. Safety remains a critical focus, and the latest findings indicate no new safety concerns with long-term use. The incidence of new primary malignancies was lower in the olaparib group, and there was no evidence of an increased risk of MDS or AML. These results emphasize the continued benefit of genetic testing to identify patients who can benefit from targeted therapy. With blinded follow-up continuing until June 2029, the OlympiA trial remains a landmark study shaping the treatment landscape for HER2-negative breast cancer. This research stands as a testament to the dedication of investigators, patients, and study partners, and the findings were dedicated to the memory of Dr. Bella Kaufman, who played a key role in the trial’s development. #SABCS2024 #BreastCancer #OlympiATrial #Oncology #Olaparib #PrecisionMedicine #CancerResearch

Targeting SUMOylation in Cholangiocarcinoma: A Potential Therapeutic Approach A recent study published in Hepatology explores the role of SUMOylation in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and its potential as a therapeutic target. The research analyzed tumors from multiple patient cohorts and CCA cell lines, revealing that elevated expression of SUMOylation machinery genes (SAE1 and UBE2I) correlates with poor clinical outcomes. Key findings: 🟢 SUMOylated proteins were linked to cancer cell proliferation, survival, and homeostasis. 🟢 Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of SUMOylation (using ML792 and SAMe) suppressed tumorigenesis, reduced cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and enhanced the presence of anti-tumor immune cells. 🟢 Targeting SUMOylation impaired cholangiocarcinoma cell viability and tumor-stroma interactions, disrupting tumor progression. Importantly, normal human cholangiocytes were unaffected, highlighting the selectivity of this approach. This research suggests that modulating SUMOylation could represent a promising strategy for cholangiocarcinoma treatment, potentially improving outcomes for patients with this aggressive malignancy. Thanks to the experts for their dedication to advancing research in hepatobiliary oncology. For more details, read the full study: https://lnkd.in/etP5XZAE #Cholangiocarcinoma #LiverCancer #Oncology #Hepatology #CancerResearch #TumorMicroenvironment

Exploring Icosabutate for MASH: Insights from a Phase IIb Trial A recent phase IIb randomized trial, published in the Journal of Hepatology, evaluated Icosabutate, an oral FFAR1/FFAR4 agonist, in patients with biopsy-confirmed MASH and fibrosis (F1-F3). While the primary endpoint—MASH resolution without fibrosis worsening—was not met, the study revealed promising improvements in fibrosis and biomarkers of liver injury and inflammation. Key findings include: 🟢 A higher proportion of patients treated with Icosabutate (300 mg and 600 mg) experienced at least a one-stage fibrosis improvement. AI-assisted digital pathology confirmed fibrosis improvements. 🟢 Significant reductions in markers of liver injury and inflammation, alongside better glycemic control. 🟢 A favorable safety profile, with mild to moderate treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and no drug-induced liver injury. Despite not meeting the primary endpoint, these findings support further investigation of Icosabutate in MASH patients, especially those with more advanced fibrosis (F2-F3) and type 2 diabetes. Thanks to the experts behind this important study for their contributions to advancing MASH research. For more details, read the full study: https://lnkd.in/eighjiXf #MASH #Hepatology #LiverHealth #ClinicalResearch #NAFLD #FattyLiver #MetabolicHealth

Advancing HCC Treatment: The Potential of Salsalate with Lenvatinib New research in JHEP Reports explores how Salsalate, a rheumatoid arthritis therapy, may enhance the effectiveness of Lenvatinib in treating MASH-driven hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). By stimulating AMPK, enhancing fatty acid oxidation, and reducing steatosis, fibrosis, and tumor proliferation, Salsalate helps create a more favorable liver microenvironment, potentially improving treatment outcomes. Findings suggest that combining Salsalate with Lenvatinib leads to better tumor suppression, reduced angiogenesis, and prolonged survival in preclinical models. These effects are associated with AMPK activation and inhibition of mTOR-HIF1α and Erk1/2 signaling pathways, opening the door for a promising therapeutic approach in MASH-associated HCC. For more details, check out the full study: https://lnkd.in/evDuvb47 #Hepatology #LiverCancer #HCC #MASH #Oncology #MedicalResearch

Immune Dysfunction and Infection Risk in Advanced Liver Disease The latest review in Gastroenterology explores the complex relationship between immune dysfunction and infection risk in advanced liver disease, highlighting the contributions of Brett McGettigan, Maria Hernandez-Tejero, Harmeet Malhi, and Vijay Shah. Patients with cirrhosis and severe alcohol-associated hepatitis face an increased susceptibility to microbial infections, which can lead to decompensation, acute-on-chronic liver failure, and high short-term mortality. The review discusses the intricate mechanisms of immune paralysis in liver disease, including gut barrier dysfunction, impaired immune activation, and microbial translocation. By addressing the systemic immune dysregulation associated with liver disease, this work emphasizes potential therapeutic targets for reducing infection risk and improving patient outcomes. For more details: https://lnkd.in/eS3JGxMC #LiverDisease #Hepatology #Cirrhosis #ImmuneDysfunction #InfectionRisk #MedicalResearch

What Is the Optimal Locoregional Approach for Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma? The Journal of Clinical Oncology features an important discussion led by Neil Newman MD MS, Colin Court, MD, PhD, and Alexander Parikh, MD, MPH on the best locoregional treatment strategies for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). As part of the Oncology Grand Rounds series, this article places original reports in a clinical context, incorporating case presentations, diagnostic challenges, literature reviews, and suggested management approaches. The goal is to help clinicians apply key findings to real-world practice, ensuring better-informed treatment decisions for patients with recurrent HCC. For those interested in locoregional strategies for HCC, this publication provides valuable insights into current management considerations. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eXHh2KzU #HepatocellularCarcinoma #HCC #LiverCancer #Oncology #CancerResearch #MedicalUpdates

Addressing Alcohol Use Disorder Through a Gastroenterology & Hepatology Lens Alcohol use disorder remains a leading but preventable cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with profound implications for chronic liver disease. Yet, despite its significant burden, clinicians often face challenges in assessing and managing alcohol intake effectively. This recent Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology review highlights the importance of standardized tools like the Alcohol Use Identification Test (AUDIT) and alcohol biomarkers such as phosphatidylethanol in identifying and quantifying alcohol consumption. Non-pharmacological interventions, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, and twelve-step facilitation, are effective even in patients with advanced liver disease. When considering pharmacological treatments, factors such as liver disease severity, comorbidities, and medication safety profiles should be carefully evaluated. The study strongly supports integrated multidisciplinary care teams as the ideal approach to managing alcohol use disorder in patients with alcohol-related liver disease. With alcohol-related liver disease on the rise, it is crucial to strengthen early identification, intervention, and comprehensive care strategies to improve patient outcomes. Read more: https://lnkd.in/ezpvyAzj #Hepatology #Gastroenterology #AlcoholUseDisorder #LiverHealth #AUD #AlcoholRelatedLiverDisease #PublicHealth #AddictionTreatment

Advancing Liver Cancer Care: Join the EASL Liver Cancer Summit 2025 in Paris The EASL Liver Cancer Summit 2025 will take place in Paris from February 20-22, bringing together leading experts to discuss the latest developments in liver cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Rocío Macías, Fabio Piscaglia, and Julien Calderaro emphasized that this year’s summit is an important opportunity to explore new research, therapies, and experimental models that are reshaping the field. A key highlight of the meeting is Cholangiocarcinoma Day, dedicated to raising awareness of this aggressive and often overlooked type of liver cancer. With new drugs and treatment options emerging, the landscape for HCC, cholangiocarcinoma, and rare liver tumors is evolving, offering new possibilities for patient care. The program will feature discussions on advancements in liver cancer research and an abstract session focused entirely on scientific communication. Experts attending will gain valuable insights that can help refine treatment approaches and improve patient outcomes. Abstract submissions are now open, making this an excellent opportunity to share research and contribute to shaping the future of liver cancer treatment. Looking forward to seeing everyone in Paris for this important event! For more information: https://lnkd.in/ecedhYtW #EASL2025 #LiverCancerSummit #Hepatology #Oncology #HCC #Cholangiocarcinoma #CancerResearch #MedicalInnovation #AIinMedicine #LiverCancer

A recent study led by Dr. Michael Traeger, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, provides compelling real-world evidence on the effectiveness of doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis (doxyPEP) in reducing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among HIV PrEP users. The findings show a 79% reduction in chlamydia cases and an 80% decline in syphilis cases after doxyPEP initiation, with moderate declines in urethral and rectal gonorrhea. In contrast, STI rates remained stable among those not using doxyPEP. These results reinforce the potential of doxyPEP as a public health tool for STI prevention. With clinical guidelines evolving and new data emerging, should we be looking at broader implementation strategies? Read the full study here: https://lnkd.in/eGr8C7fM A special acknowledgment to Dr. Michael Traeger and his team of researchers for their valuable contributions to the field of STI prevention. Their work provides critical insights into the potential role of doxyPEP in public health strategies. #STIprevention #InfectiousDiseases #HIV #DoxyPEP #PublicHealth #HIVPrevention #MedicalResearch #Epidemiology #JAMA #SexualHealth

A recent Lancet Infectious Diseases study led by Dr. Laura Olbrich and colleagues from the RaPaed-TB study highlights the importance of parallel microbiological testing to improve TB diagnosis in children across Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, and India. 🔍 Key Findings: ✅ Higher detection rates using concurrent Ultra and culture tests ✅ Sputum testing remains crucial, detecting TB in 78% of children under 5 ✅ Nasopharyngeal aspirate is a promising non-invasive option ✅ Parallel sampling significantly improves detection in high-risk groups 💡 Impact: These findings have influenced WHO recommendations, emphasizing age- and comorbidity-adjusted strategies for better pediatric TB detection. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dW4nZYsJ #Tuberculosis #PediatricHealth #GlobalHealth #RaPaedTB #PublicHealth #Diagnostics